How Can Cyber Security Be Improved? And How Can I Help?

2017 was the year of data breaches, with even established giants like Equifax feeling the wrath of it. A Data Breach Cost Study by the Ponemon Institute in 2017 revealed that the global average cost of a breach lies at $3.6 million, or to put it in better perspective, $141 per data record. Startling, isn’t it? Also, it is worth mentioning that the median cost of a breach in the U.S is higher than $7.3 million.

With statistics like that, improvements in the cyber security field are imperative. So, what are the developments in cyber security that you need to know about?

AI and Machine Learning

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are advancing quickly, and will have a significant impact in many industries. The cyber security field is no exception. The war against cybercriminals escalates daily and as such, machine learning models are being developed that will have the ability to predict and identify cyber-attacks swiftly and accurately. These models will require training and honing.

IoT is a weak link

With the advent of more sensor-packed internet-connected devices, the Internet of Things is proving to be a major liability regarding defenses. Internet connected devices typically lack essential security features or are not thoroughly configured, which makes them easy pickings for hackers. This has seen to the rise of botnets which are responsible for volumetric attacks.

Learning how to secure the IoT properly is imperative, since it is here to stay.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

The European Union’s new GDPR has strict policies on how organizations should handle the personal data of EU citizens. These regulations take effect May 25, and any infringement might provoke a fine of up to 20 million euros.

Consequently, many companies are scrambling to adapt before the regulations come into force.

Handling Data Breaches Expertly

The infamous breach at Equifax gave us a ‘how to’ not handle an attack. By failing to patch a known liability, misdirecting potential victims, and delaying disclosure, they escalated the situation from bad to worse.

It might prove infeasible to eradicate data breaches. However, every company needs to know how to handle the aftermath appropriately.

As such, it is all too obvious that the cyber security realm that deserves apprenticeship. Nevertheless, it is not as easy as going to YouTube and learning how to DIY. You need proper education and training.

Cyber Security Education

A bachelor's degree is a great start to your future in cyber security. There are lots of additional certifications that cyber security professionals can earn, each of which imparts a different kind of specialized knowledge. A collection of these certifications could make a big difference in your life after graduation. 

As the federal government and healthcare industry handle copious amounts of confidential data and correspondence, these are two common areas to find cyber security experts thriving in their natural environment. Cyber security is not just about computer savvy--it's about protecting people and their information. 

Cyber security is applicable to nearly every industry, as long as private data is housed on their digital systems. 

Scholarships for Cyber Students

The Center for Cyber Security Safety and Education is dishing out scholarships to people venturing into the field! Any university or college offering cyber security probably offers financial aid, scholarship programs, and more options. Be sure not to skip a visit to the financial aid office when checking out prospective schools. 

Flexible Degree Programs

Flexibility makes everything easier. If you're concerned about fitting cyber security classes into an already tight schedule, consider universities offering online or hybrid learning options. You could learn from the comfort of your own home, when you have the time, with the same tools and resources as students in the classroom. 

You cannot overlook cyber security's importance today. Our lives are too digitally intertwined to not stand up to cybercrime. When you're ready to make a difference, consider earning your cyber security degree. 

Are you interested in working in cyber security? If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security, ECPI University offers this degree at an accelerated schedule. For more information, connect with one of our helpful admissions counselors today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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